Things to do in Tokyo

Landmark · Taitō

Tokyo's oldest temple, approached through the lantern gate and the Nakamise market street.

Local tip: Go early morning or after dark to beat the crowds; the illuminated gate at night is genuinely magical.

Landmark · Shibuya

The world's busiest pedestrian scramble, ringed by neon and department stores.

Local tip: View it from the Shibuya Sky deck or the Starbucks above the crossing for the classic shot.

Nightlife · Shinjuku

A serene imperial garden by day; the tiny-bar alleys of Golden Gai and yakitori-filled Omoide Yokocho by night.

Local tip: Golden Gai's micro-bars seat six and some charge a cover or are regulars-only — Omoide Yokocho is the easier first stop.

Food · Chūō

Street food and sushi stalls where the famous fish market used to be (the wholesale auction moved to Toyosu).

Local tip: Come hungry mid-morning for tamagoyaki, fresh sushi and grilled scallops; the tuna auction is now at Toyosu.

Culture · Shibuya

A vast forested shrine sitting right beside the youth-fashion frenzy of Harajuku.

Local tip: Walk the shrine's tree-lined path for calm, then Takeshita Street for the contrast — weekday mornings are quietest.

Neighborhood · Setagaya

A bohemian, walkable district of vintage shops, indie cafes, theatres and live-music basements.

Local tip: A laid-back escape from the megacity — perfect for a slow afternoon of thrifting and third-wave coffee.